Mary E. Johnson (McEntee)

Mary Ellen Johnson (née McEntee), of Milford, NH, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on May 7, 2026.

Mary was born February 12, 1958 to John and Eileen (née Byrne) McEntee of Milford. She was raised in a large and loving family in Milford and graduated from Milford High School in 1976.

She is survived by daughters Erin Garcia (Mike), Carrie Johnson-Sailstad (Peter), and Meredith Johnson, grandchildren Kyla Garcia, Colin Garcia, Sasha Sailstad, and Rawley Peinado; sisters Maureen (Tom) VonDette, Ellen (Robert) Pratt, and Diane McEntee, and brothers Joe (Linda) McEntee and Patrick McEntee.

She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews, cousins, and many close coworkers and friends.

She is predeceased by her parents, former husband Peter, brothers John McEntee and Malcolm McEntee, sisters Catherine McEntee and Sheila Fraser, brother-in-law Dave Fraser, and nephew Daniel McEntee.

Mary lived a life rooted in kindness, laughter, generosity, and love for others. She had a special gift for making people feel seen and cared for — whether they were children, the elderly, those in need, coworkers, friends, or family. Her thoughtful nature and quick wit brought comfort, joy, and laughter to countless lives. She was wonderfully silly, endlessly warm, and could brighten even the hardest days with her sense of humor and radiant spirit.

Mary devoted countless hours to volunteering and giving back to her community. For many years, she worked at Hillsboro-Deering Elementary School, where her caring heart and dedication touched the hearts of many children and families. Later in life, she found joy working with the public, where she became known for bringing sunshine into people’s days and forming lasting friendships with coworkers everywhere she went.

Above all else, Mary loved her family immensely. Her connection to her parents and siblings never wavered and she made sure her children grew up close to family, no matter the distance. She shared a unique and special bond with each of her daughters, nurturing them with unconditional love, encouragement, and creativity. Though the family moved often through the years, Mary transformed every new place into an adventure. No matter where life took her, she effortlessly made friends and created a sense of home and belonging.

She gave her children a magical childhood filled with music, imagination, learning, and laughter. Even ordinary chores became moments of fun and togetherness in her hands. Some of the memories her children cherish most are the simple ones: sitting on the porch sipping iced coffee, playing cards and games, laughing together, and simply enjoying her company.

Mary will be remembered for her generous heart, her joyful spirit, her deep compassion for others, and the beautiful way she made everyday life feel special. Her love lives on in the many people whose lives she touched and especially in the hearts of her family, who will miss her dearly and carry her memory with them always.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Interment is private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to New Generation https://newgennh.org